Paul Douglas Forest Preserve (Grassy Ridge Meadow)

Illinois · Midwest

ChallengingView on eBird
Habitat
ForestMountainGrassland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Paul Douglas Forest Preserve (Grassy Ridge Meadow) is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 229 species recorded on eBird. This forest and mountain habitat attracts a wide variety of species among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse species.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

European Goldfinch

Carduelis carduelis

3/6/2026Air Station Prairie, Glenview2 observed

Red-tailed Hawk (abieticola)

Buteo jamaicensis

3/5/2026Broadsmore Drive Ponds, Algonquin1 observed

Eastern Phoebe

Sayornis phoebe

3/5/2026Fermilab (DuPage Co.)1 observed

Horned Grebe

Podiceps auritus

3/4/2026Bensenville Ditch1 observed

Whooping Crane

Grus americana

3/2/2026Raceway Woods Forest Preserve1 observed

American White Pelican

Pelecanus erythrorhynchos

3/2/2026Busse Woods--south pool5 observed

American Pipit

Anthus rubescens

3/1/2026Kline Creek Farm3 observed

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.

  2. 2

    Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.

  3. 3

    Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Paul Douglas Forest Preserve (Grassy Ridge Meadow) for birding?
The best months to visit Paul Douglas Forest Preserve (Grassy Ridge Meadow) for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Paul Douglas Forest Preserve (Grassy Ridge Meadow)?
Notable species at Paul Douglas Forest Preserve (Grassy Ridge Meadow) include Red-eyed Vireo, Scarlet Tanager, Pileated Woodpecker, Wood Thrush, Ovenbird. The area supports forest, mountain, grassland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Paul Douglas Forest Preserve (Grassy Ridge Meadow)?
Birding at Paul Douglas Forest Preserve (Grassy Ridge Meadow) is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Paul Douglas Forest Preserve (Grassy Ridge Meadow)?
Paul Douglas Forest Preserve (Grassy Ridge Meadow) offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.